Solent Stars have two sets of Crusaders to repel in men's league basketball action at Fleming Park tonight.

Crusade number one pitches Solent's second team against East Kent Crusaders in the National Division 3 East (6pm), writes WENDY GEE.

The opposing armies have identical league records with two wins and one defeat apiece. Solent coach Mick Byrne has plenty of troops to choose from and is hoping to get back to winning ways after a last-minute defeat away to London Eagles.

The second set of Crusaders are due on court at 8pm, when Alan Cunningham's first team do battle with Coventry Crusaders for the second time this season.

On their last visit, Coventry were sent packing 76-70 in a National Trophy pool game. Both teams lost their opening National League Division 1 fixtures last weekend - Solent going down 84-71 at Teesside Mohawks and Coventry losing 84-68 at Reading Rockets.

Solent will have two new players on show this weekend - both of them Scottish and both part of the new Academy link with Southampton Institute.

Graham Hunter, 6ft 2in, has played for his country and, along with fellow Scot Michael McGregor, is an exciting prospect.

Stars director Jim Rumsey reported: "Both have impressed at practices with their all-round play and shooting ability."

Nick Oharabe has made a dramatic recovery from an ankle injury and, along with the two newcomers, will boost numbers for a busy weekend of fixtures.

The Solent first team are in action again at Fleming Park tomorrow (7.30pm) against Reading in the National Cup third round.

It will be the third meeting between the teams this season, having met home and away in the Southern Challenge Cup.